Shoot one, preferably several of different lengths, and at least one with a standard grip and one with the Asbell grip, then decide if you can live without one or not. All custom bows are "expensive," a relative term at best, but only you know if you can afford it or not. They are well-made bows, and the people that make them are first rate. In my opinion, they are probably the most "bomb-proof" recurves out there. If you shop around, you'll find that their prices are in line with other high-end bowyers, and even less than some. (By the way, I don't own one, but I have owned one before.) Good luck.